A DAY WITHOUT CARS IN KAMPALA, A BREATHE OF FRESH AIR

On a sunny Saturday morning, the streets of Nile Avenue, Speke Road, Shimoni Road, and Buganda Road witnessed an extraordinary transformation.

Instead of the usual traffic jams and the honking horns, the city’s streets were filled with laughter, cycling enthusiasts, children playing, and the joyful bustle of a community united for a cause.

The 2nd edition of Kampala’s Car Free Day had arrived, leaving behind the chaos of cars to embrace a day of sustainability and health.

Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), in partnership with the Ministry of Works and Transport, Uganda Police, and e-bee bicycles, International Resources, Airquo, organized the event to promote sustainable transport, raise awareness about the importance of clean air, and advocate for active mobility.

The day marked a shift towards rethinking urban life, a shift that comes at a crucial time for the city.

People participated in various events, from bicycle races to walkathons, while street artists turned empty roads into colorful canvases. Families enjoyed an array of street games and exhibitions. Children laughed and played in a city that had, for once, become their playground.

Among the unique activities was a yoga session, offering a moment of calm amidst the lively energy. People gathered on mats, breathing in the fresh air, a stark contrast to the usual fumes from cars and motorbikes.

“It’s refreshing to see Kampala this way,” said Sharon Kabatesi, a participant in the walk race. “It feels like the city belongs to us, not just the cars. I hope we can have more days like this where we put our health and the environment first.”

One of the standout moments of the day was the bicycle race organized for persons with disabilities. It was a powerful reminder that non-motorized transport is not just for the able-bodied, but can be an inclusive, empowering option for everyone.

Justus Akankwasa, KCCA’s Director of Engineering and Technical Services, explained the significance of Car Free Day in addressing Kampala’s transportation and environmental challenges.

“This initiative is part of our broader efforts to improve air quality and encourage active mobility,” he said. “By reducing our reliance on motor vehicles, we are not only benefiting the environment but also promoting healthier lifestyles.”

Kampala, like many rapidly urbanizing cities, faces a growing challenge in balancing development with sustainability. The city’s increasing traffic congestion has resulted in poor air quality, with vehicle emissions contributing significantly to pollution levels.

The introduction of Car Free Day aims to foster a culture of sustainable transport, encouraging residents to adopt bicycles, walking, and other eco-friendly modes of transport.

“The benefits of non-motorized transport are clear,” Akankwasa continued. “It’s not just about reducing traffic—it’s about improving the health of our residents, reducing pollution, and creating a more livable city.”

This year’s event also aligned with World Clean Air Day, further highlighting the link between reduced vehicle usage and improved air quality.

With climate change affecting air quality and public health, events like this serve as vital platforms for raising awareness about the need for urgent action.

James Mugabe, an environmental activist, highlighted the importance of such initiatives in addressing Kampala’s environmental challenges. “Car Free Day may seem like a small initiative, but its impact is far-reaching,” he noted. “It encourages people to rethink how they move around the city. Every bicycle ride or walk is a step towards reducing carbon emissions and tackling climate change.”

For many residents, the event served as an eye-opener, showing them the possibilities of a city designed for people, not just cars.

Already, plans are underway to create more dedicated bicycle lanes, pedestrian walkways, and improve the city’s infrastructure to support non-motorized transport. These steps are critical in ensuring that Kampala becomes a more sustainable, healthier city for its residents.

“It’s not just about having fun,” said Akankwasa. “It’s about laying the foundation for a future where sustainable transport becomes the norm, not the exception.”